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I used both when building a tree house for my kids. The only reason I don't give it a 5-star rating is because tools, while great performers, have a "light-weight" feel to them, like they might not hold up over time with heavy use, but that's just speculation. This kit changes all my perceptions about cordless tools.
The impact driver is a bit loud, but is so fast, the noise was secondary to concentrating on the depth I was driving lags. Since my tools will be largely relegated to my workshop, they will be pretty pampered, so not a major concern. BTW: I tried the impact wrench on my car's lug nuts and it zipped them off and on.
I've owned a variety of cordless tools, the latest being Grizzly 18V, and had learned to live with short battery life and less than impressive power. Meanwhile I was driving 4-inch lags, 2- inch deck screws, tightening carriage bolts. I am very pleased with this kit so far.
The drill/driver is powerful, and the impact driver, though small is a dynamo. Over the two weekends I worked, I never recharged the battery.
but keeps driving strong. The drill also is a quality tool. This impact driver is my favorite power tool. I have not owned another impact diver so cannot make comparisons to others, but I have only good comments for the makita 18 volt impact driver. My only complaint is that the battery charger seems a bit slow, and there is no indication of remaining charge on batteries. I now love to drive screws. I have been working this machine in the heat and grime, it looks beat.
They are very powerful and have a good battery life. They are very comfortable to use and my hand does not get tired. These are the best tools that I have ever used in my entire life. After trying all other brand name cordless tools, I was tired of using all of that junk so I purchased these cordless tools and I am very satisfied. I work in many areas of construction and use the tools on a daily basis.
DO NOT run these batteries into the ground. Compared to the boat anchors of NiCd technology, these things are a stark difference. The fan is there to keep the batteries cool, so I can live with a bit of annoying whine if my expensive battery will last longer. I have not noticed excessive run-out in the chuck, however, I do not consider cordless drills precision tools.
Really, Makita hit a home run with this particular tool. That notwithstanding, I am overall very satisfied with my purchase and I do not regret my it at all. I utilize this extra space for those items plus a few masonry bits. For precise drilling I would use a drill press or an expensive corded drill. The clutch positions are easy to manipulate and are handy for the most part.
Everything except the battery cells themselves are made in China. Doing so can drastically reduce the life of the battery pack. It is powerful, and nice to be able to use full half inch shank bits with it. The switch for different modes (hammer-drill, drill, driver) can stick at times, so a quick pull of the trigger is necessary to free the action (minus one). It is actually quite well designed, with room for an extra battery pack (which I bought separately).
They deliver seemingly endless power. Makita does not include a "fail safe" system to automatically shut down the tool when the batteries become critically low (most consumer products using Li-Ion batteries have this). This gives me a complete kit to drill holes in wood/metal/masonry as well as drive screws all in one easy to carry package. The drill's lights are indeed blocked by the large chuck, as another person pointed out (minus three). I will do as another reviewer and break mine up into a few sections.
Using an impact driver makes the task SO much easier. I give up precision for convenience with cordless. That said, when I use the tools for a project, I don't have to recharge more than once. The batteries are amazing. Make sure to read the owners manuals, two times.
The charger is rather delicate looking, and can be a little noisy when in use. I purchased this combo kit just over one year ago. Hitachi tools apparently have this, unfortunately Makita does not (minus two). The drill's lights and selector switch I can forgive, but the lack of the battery saving feature (for lack of a better term) and the fact that the whole thing is made in China are unforgivable for me. Driving screws before using this beast was a a chore at best. The hammer-drill function works well and is a lifesaver for small jobs. I waited to write a review so that I could address any problems that might come up with it.
Also, there is enough room for a small drill bit set and driver bits in the case. It is very light, extremely comfortable in the hand, and superbly balanced. The drill was a bonus for me, since the kit was only a little more expensive than buying either tool separately. The lights on the tools are more useful than you'll think, especially on the driver. Very convenient.
The impact driver is the main reason I bought this kit, and I was not disappointed. While it will drive long deck screws and lag screws without a pilot hole, I drill one anyway to avoid splitting. One VERY important note, however. Miscellaneous things to touch on include the case. So with that long review, and my four main points of dissatisfaction, it is with a heavy heart that I give this combo kit four stars. Self discharge is so low that I can pick up the tool a month after last using it, and have more than enough power to drill a few holes and drive several screws. They are also very light. The cells are made in Japan, the rest of the tool kit is made and/or assembled in China (minus four).
I am not a contractor, just a serious DIY type. The belt clips really come in handy, especially when you're on a ladder. It may not be the most powerful one out there, but I have broken heads off screws and small bolts, so for me, it is rather adequate. The lights can be confusing, so make sure to read the manual on how to decipher them. That is a huge plus for me, even though the project may only be a half a day (though the tools get used constantly). It is heavier than the impact driver, but surprisingly well balanced and ergonomic. Loose bits are also not an issue with me, I crank the chuck down then ratchet it home tight.
I used some of my co-workers 18v li-ion and was instantly sold. I've never said I wish I hadn't spent the extra money for a good quality tool. I recently had to upgrade my drill/driver combo. The impact driver actually seems lighter than my old favorite 12volt.Don't get the white combo, spend a little more for the upgrade. I've often said I wish I had spent a few dollars more for better tools, but not this time.worth every penny. As a professional Finish carpenter, I need cordless tools that can work all day, and not tire ME out. Have used most brands, and still own a collection of older makita cordless.
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